ARTrails is unique in the way the art is displayed. Patrons are invited to the artists' places of work. Though this is a great opportunity, you must locate the artists you want to view and go to them individually. To plan your trip, visit the Sonoma Arts website. This provides you with information on each individual artist, a small description of the artists and their work, a photo of their artistic creations and the studio numbers. Studio numbers assist you in locating the artists' studios. A map with all the numbers is proved by the website.
ARTrails serves not only the city of Sonoma, but Sonoma County as a whole. Know what cities are near one another when planning your route. In Northern Sonoma County, cities include Santa Rosa and Healdsburg. Central Sonoma County includes Rohnert Park, Cotati and Penngrove. To the south is Petaluma, and the west holds Sebastopool, Forestville and Graton. There are various different types of art offered through ARTrails, and displays change annually. However, some categories that may be viewed are fused glass, fiber arts, ceramics, woodwork, pastel drawings, junk art, oil paintings, watercolor, marble work, photography and jewelry creations.
When visiting an art gallery, many questions about the artist and his thought process may come to mind. This is an opportunity to have all questions answered while viewing the art. Visitors personally interact with artists in their places of work. You can analyze each artistic creation and learn directly from the artists about their techniques and processes of creating art. Some artists provide live demonstrations or allow you a hands-on experience of your own. Works of art are also available for purchase.
Any artist with gallery or professional-level artwork is encouraged to apply. Artists who wish to apply must be residents of Sonoma County. You must also have a work space or studio in this county. A small application fee, as well as one piece of original work, must be presented for the ARTrails jury. Artists who are selected are notified by phone. There are other opportunities for all artists of any age or skill level as well. Creations can be submitted to the Arts Council and may appear on the Council's website.